Eskom Enterprises, the non-regulated arm of power utility Eskom, announced today it has chosen Siemens' Information and Communications Group (I and C) as its technology partner for the roll-out of its fibre optic network infrastructure in preparation of participation in SA's second national operator (SNO) roll-out.
Contract negotiations are in the final stages of completion for a Multimillion-rand network roll-out, and details should be finalised within the next fortnight. In terms of the agreement, Siemens will be responsible for the supply, installation, commissioning and operations of a turnkey telecommunications solution for the SNO.
Pete da Silva, the chief operating officer of Siemens Telecommunications, the telecoms unit of Siemens' I and C Group, said roll-out of the project would begin in January 2002.
"The team is busy with the design phase and live switch-on is planned for end April next year," Da Silva said.
The telecommunications unit of Eskom Enterprises is positioning itself, together with Transtel, to participate in SA's SNO, when Telkom's monopoly expires next May. Siemens was invited to participate in the Eskom Enterprises Request for Information (RFI) in March 2001 during the initial network design phase, and the subsequent enquiry in July. In the final stages of the selection process, Siemens shrugged off competition from rivals Alcatel, Nortel Networks and Marconi to be chosen as the preferred technology partner.
Dave Smith, the capital programme development manager of Eskom Enterprises Telecommunications unit, said: "We chose Siemens over its competitors because of its integrated technology offering, its strong regional presence both in SA, and on the African continent, and comprehensive telecommunications business solution capability."
Siemens has carried out many similar projects in Southern Africa and across the globe.
Smith said Eskom Enterprises Telecommunication had been through a rigorous commercial evaluation process for the selection of its technology partner.
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Siemens' I and C Group - (Trading as Siemens Telecommunications (Pty) Ltd) Siemens' Information and Communications Group (I and C) in SA is a leading provider of voice and data networks with a comprehensive portfolio of IP-based products and solutions for enterprises, carriers and service providers. It is an integral part of the Information and Communications (I and C) business segment of Siemens AG, which also comprises Information and Communication Mobile and Siemens Business Services.
Siemens' I and C Group is divided into Carrier and Enterprise Solutions which focus on providing customised solutions, including the integration of products, systems and technology, to suit both business and individual needs. With a strong foundation in the mobile networks arena, which includes established GSM infrastructure, products, solutions and services for the Next Generation Internet, and electronic business solutions, Siemens provides the full spectrum of mobile business solutions, allowing users to communicate and be connected to information and services any time and any place
Eskom Enterprises
Eskom Enterprises was formed as part of the South African government's initiative to restructure Eskom and the new company's strategic intent is to become a pre-eminent energy and related services business in Africa. This Eskom subsidiary formed to develop and commercialise Eskom's non-regulated activities has been operating officially since January 1st 2000. However, that date belies the depth of skills and the impressive track record the company has, thanks to its various operations. Its activities include consulting, rehabilitation work, acquisitions, Greenfield projects and strategic partnerships in the power generation, transmission and distribution sectors as well as in the telecommunications sector.
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